The next-generation of policy management tools
The “next-generation approach” to policy management is to apply the PCRF alongside customer data management tools in the BSS. By combining policy management and enforcement with customer data in the BSS, MNOs can draw on a broader set of information to accommodate dynamic charging principles for a variety of use cases.
Combining information about network and service status with customer data stored in the BSS provides a granular customer management tool that can be used to generate incremental revenues through differentiated use cases. Operators can then offer personalized tariff plans that allow customers to better manage their costs and access to specific services. For example, enterprises may wish to limit their employee’s use of corporate mobile phones outside of working hours or provide spend limits that require authorization to breach.
While there are clear benefits to the concept of “smarter charging”, MNOs must ensure that they consider the customer when designing segmented tariff plans and new use cases. The increased transparency these tools can provide to the customer will be welcome, but if too much complexity is introduced into tariffs and account management customers may well switch off.